AI Is changing the way we work. Here’s a place to start.

Artificial intelligence is prompting organizations to rethink how people work and reconsider what employees will need to know, challenging common assumptions about what it means to be skilled and prepared. 

The questions are evolving as quickly as the technology: Which tools are appropriate for Duke work? What information can safely be shared? What decisions are best for human thinking and judgment? 

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A new learning series for Duke faculty and staff is designed to help answer those questions.

AI Foundations provides a common starting point for understanding AI and using it thoughtfully and responsibly in Duke work. The first course, AI Foundations: Principles and Policy, is now available at no cost to Duke faculty and staff.

The online, self-paced course takes about 45 minutes and is designed for those who are beginning to explore AI to those looking to deepening their understanding and confidence.

“AI is moving incredibly quickly, and people shouldn’t have to figure out all of this on their own,” said Michael Greene, director of Digital Experience & Academic Technology Solutions in Duke’s Office of Information Technology. “AI Foundations gives people a place to start and helps them build the knowledge and judgment to make thoughtful decisions about how they use these tools.”

More than learning how to prompt

The course begins with the basics: What AI is, common terminology, available tools and what the technology can and cannot reliably do.

But much of the learning focuses on the decisions people make around the technology such as when to verify a source, and recognizing inaccurate or biased information.

Participants work through realistic Duke scenarios involving privacy, security, accuracy, bias and misinformation. They also learn techniques for writing and refining prompts and evaluating AI-generated results.

The goal isn’t simply to help people use more AI. It’s to help people make better decisions about when, where and how to use it.

A foundation to build on

Three additional courses will be added to the learning series later this year, giving faculty and staff opportunities to move from foundational knowledge into practical applications and deeper learning. Synchronous learning opportunities will also be offered throughout the academic year.

Learn more about Duke’s AI training, support and resources at the AI Support Hub.

Questions? Contact help@duke.edu.